Moving your elderly parents does not have to be complicated.
Preparing ahead of time not only keeps things organised for the move but will also give you time to adjust to this transition. Our comprehensive guide has some useful tips to help you get started. Keep reading to know more.
Checklist for Moving Elderly Parents
It’s easy to feel overwhelmed when it comes to moving more vulnerable elderly individuals. Whether you’ve made a decision or are considering the topic for the future, having a checklist is one of the easiest ways to get organised.
Choose a moving date
Research moving companies for relocating
Book a storage unit if needed
Complete change of address process, including notifying key services such as your bank, pharmacy, insurance, etc.
Notify your doctor of the move and get a referral if you are relocating far
Schedule for utilities such as water and electricity to be switched off in the current residence
Set up utilities at the new location
Get prescriptions for the moving period
Tips for Helping Elderly Parents Move
Once you’ve made the decision to move, the process might seem stressful. With these tips, you can take the stress out of moving and ensure a smooth transition for you and your loved ones.
1. Downsize Before Moving
When it comes to downsizing, it’s best to start small. Elderly movers often have a lifetime of memorable possessions that can be difficult to part with, especially antiques. Begin with a room that is easy to tackle, like a guest room or bathroom.
Take time to get accustomed to the moving and downsizing process. Then you can start sorting items into ‘keeping’ and ‘giving away’ piles to help you declutter. Family heirlooms can be passed down the generations, whereas some items could be produced at an estate auction and help with the moving costs.
2. Opt for Senior Relocation Services
Sometimes, it may be difficult to be physically present during the moving process. A retirement moving company could be a great help in this case. But with their expertise in organising and relocating seniors’ possessions, enlisting their services is always beneficial. They’re acutely aware of the complexities that can arise during moving elderly parents and can help take off the emotional aspect of the move.
3. Organise Moving Transportation Around Their Needs
Long trips can be physically demanding for older adults, especially for those needing medical care. You could either drive them to their new home or enlist the services of a moving company. There are senior-focussed transportation companies that provide non-emergency medical transport for individuals with additional needs such as wheelchairs and oxygen tanks.
4. Prioritise Healthcare Before Moving
Healthcare should be a top priority when it comes to moving elderly parents. First of all, you should notify their current doctors, and get referrals and appointments set up near their new home. Likewise, prescriptions should be transferred to a new pharmacy, making sure that the new location is covered in their health insurance plan.
5. Create a Homely Feel in the New Location
When it comes to decorating a new place, understand the layout and find opportunities to add things you love. Personal touches go a long way in making a new place feel like home. Treat it as an opportunity to add more positive updates to your living space, such as a brightly coloured accent wall, or even a new home studio.
Facilitating the move for elderly parents properly can guarantee a safer residential setting and reduce distress after moving home for more vulnerable individuals. You don’t have to do it alone because Bishop’s Move is here to assist you every step of the way, from initial packing to moving into a rented property.
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